Supplemental Info:

Sources indicate that ~50 people, including staff and families, have already departed.

Early news coverage links the move to concerns about possible spillover effects, such as Hezbollah attacking Israel if the U.S. strikes Iran. Other perspectives frame it within ongoing Israeli escalations in the area.

The embassy remains operational with essential staff, and the move is described as temporary to ensure personnel safety while continuing to assist U.S. citizens.

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Travel Advisory Update

U.S. Embassy Beirut

February 23, 2026

Ordered Departure of Non-Emergency U.S. Government Personnel

and Family Members of Personnel from U.S. Mission Lebanon

Location: Lebanon, countrywide

Event: The Department of State updated its Travel Advisory for Lebanon on February 23, 2026, to reflect that the Department ordered non-emergency U.S. government personnel and the family members of government personnel to leave Lebanon due to safety risks. The Travel Advisory Level for Lebanon remains Level 4 – Do Not Travel.

Out of an abundance of caution and until further notice, U.S. Embassy Beirut has suspended routine consular services. Americans should contact beirutacs@state.gov in case of emergency. Americans in Lebanon are strongly encouraged to depart now. The commercial airport remains open and there is availability on commercial carriers, however flights may be cancelled at any time. Please check flight options at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport .

Americans who choose not to depart at this time should prepare contingency plans should the situation deteriorate. These alternative plans should not rely on the U.S. government for assisted departure or evacuation.

Actions to Take:

• Americans who wish to depart should take advantage of commercial transportation options.

• If you choose to remain in Lebanon, be prepared to shelter in place should the situation deteriorate.

• Have a contingency plan for emergencies and review the Traveler’s Checklist .

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive critical information from the Embassy related to health and safety in Lebanon.

• Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help.

• Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.

Read the Full Updated Lebanon Travel Advisory